A visiting couple from Oregon was killed after they were hit by a tree that moved on top of a truck while they were biking in California, authorities said.
In its report shared with PEOPLE, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) wrote that the crash involving two bicyclists — later identified by the Napa County Coroner as Christian Deaton and Michelle Deaton, according to Fox affiliate KTVU-TV – and a three-axle Freightliner truck happened Tuesday at the Silverado track around 11 a.m. local time.
The CHP said two bicyclists were riding northbound when the load on the truck shifted to the right and flew off the right side of the vehicle. As the truck was passing the couple, the cargo hit them, causing a traffic accident.
According to the report, the man died at the scene, while the woman was transported to the hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.
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CHP Officer Vince Pompliano said it has yet to be determined why the tree from the truck moved, CBS affiliate KPIX-TV reported.
Christian Deaton, 52, and Michelle Deaton, 48, are from Portland, Oregon, and were visiting Napa County, authorities said, according to CW affiliate KRON-TV.
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In a statement shared on Facebook Wednesday, the Napa County Bicycle Coalition wrote: “Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Michelle and Christian Deaton, two bicyclists who were visiting from Portland, Oregon and died yesterday while riding the Silverado Trail. This huge preventable loss lies heavy in our hearts and minds, as we know it does for those who drive locally and work on safer streets. Living here, riding here and visiting here should be safe for all road users and we are incredibly saddened that the Deatons were not safe.”
The truck was owned by Central Valley Builders Suppliers, and its driver was reportedly cooperating with authorities, according to Press Democrat.
“We are devastated by this news and extend our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims,” a company spokesperson told the newspaper. “Central Valley continues to gather facts to determine exactly what happened, including working closely with local law enforcement as they investigate this incident.”
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Friends of the married couple, who were remembered as athletically active and avid cyclists, told KTVU about them. “We have a huge void to fill in our hearts right now,” Josh Ring said.
“Christian and Michelle were the most inspiring couple we knew,” said Nate Retzlaff. “Humble, generous, considerate, loving and hardworking, together they redefined what it means to thrive in every aspect of life… So many people today are heartbroken that the Deatons come once in a lifetime.”
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